The Irish Franchise Exhibition is expected to be the most impressive gathering of franchise expertise ever staged in Ireland

Franchising is already a large and rapidly growing industry in Ireland. It is estimated that franchising employs 22,000 people in Ireland and the franchise industry is worth €1.6 billion, and is set to grow even further. The Bank of Ireland forecasts that there will be in excess of 20,000 new business start-ups in Ireland in 2006.

The Irish Franchise Exhibition, at the Royal Dublin Society (RDS) on 17th and 18th November, will be the most impressive gathering of franchise expertise ever staged in Ireland, with the leading franchisors from Ireland, the UK and overseas offering a superb choice all under one roof. Franchising is growing rapidly worldwide as a proven way to develop successful new business ventures because it offers ready-made solutions to many of the uncertainties faced by those wanting to set up a new business for the first time, or those venturing into new markets.

The event is supported by the Irish Franchise Association (IFA), The Irish Independent and Franchise Ireland Magazine, and is sponsored by Godfather's Pizza. High quality franchisors will be offering opportunities in a cross-section of business sectors - from management, consultancy and recruitment to food & drink, health & fitness, cleaning companies, and confectionery. Hundreds of proven business ideas will be on offer to inspire ambitious entrepreneurs.

An invaluable seminar programme will run on both days and will be presented by high profile industry experts who will explain franchising, how to choose a venture, and most importantly, how to start up and build a successful franchise operation - everything a new investor or potential franchisor needs to know! There will also be advice and guidance on all aspects of business including financing, strategic planning, sales & marketing. Banks, accountants and independent franchising advisors as well as the IFA will all be on hand with resources and expertise to help visitors before they take a decision.

Dates for the Diary

January 26th & 27th: The British Franchise Exhibition, incorporating the Growing Your Own Business Exhibition & Conference, G-MEX, Manchester

March 23th & 24th: The British & International Franchise Exhibition, incorporating the Growing Your Own Business Exhibition & Conference - Olympia, London

May 11th & 12th: The Franchise Exhibition, incorporating Growing Your Own Business Showcase & Conference - Odyssey Arena, Belfast

June 8th & 9th: The British Franchise Exhibition, incorporating the Growing your Own Business Showcase & Conference - SECC, Glasgow

October 5th & 6th: The National Franchise Exhibition, incorporating Growing Your Own Business Exhibition & Conference - NEC, Birmingham